§ Mr. SHORTasked the Postmaster-General whether No. 25 on the staff list of 49 men at Taunton was recently promoted to the position of overseer; whether this officer had been exempted from military service whilst six of his seniors had seen service with the colours, with the result that their abilities and qualifications were not known to their official chief who was a newcomer to the office; whether the man promoted had never performed any work in a controlling capacity; and whether he will give an assurance that the men passed over will be specially considered for any future vacancies?
§ Mr. PEASEThe promotion referred to was made twelve months ago. The officer promoted was exempted from military service on medical grounds. Before the promotion was authorised the claims of all the men who had been on military service were carefully reviewed, and the Postmaster obtained the opinion of supervising officers who were fully acquainted with their qualifications. At the time of his promotion the officer had not had practical controlling experience, but there was no doubt whatever of his ability to control if required. The claims and qualifications of the men passed over will continue to be carefully reviewed when further vacancies arise.